2016 Nissan GT-R NISMO – I Drive Godzilla!

2016NissanGT-RNISMO review. The car features a 600 HP 3.8L twin-turbo V6, enhanced aerodynamics, and a Nürburgring developed suspension. The hand built engine features dual overhead cams, 4 valves per cylinder, plasma sprayed cylinder bores, 9:1 compression ratio, and aluminum block and heads. The engine produces 600 horsepower @ 6,800 RPM, and 481 lb-ft @3200 RPM, with a maximum engine speed of 7000 RPM. This is 55 horsepower and 18 lb-ft over a standard GT-R, thanks in part to large diameter high-flow turbocharges which are also used in GT3 competition.

MSRP As Tested: $165,780

The base GT-RNISMO starts at about $150,000, while the MSRP of the car I’m currently testing rings in at $165,780, primarily due to a nearly $13,000 weight-reducing titanium exhaust.

The engine torque passes through a 6-speed dual clutch transmission, which can preselect the next highest or next lowest gear for incredibly quick gearshifts. From there it can send up to 100% of the torque to the rear wheels, or as much as 50% to the front wheels depending on speed, lateral acceleration, steering angle, tire slip, surface conditions, and yaw rate.

As far as aerodynamics are concerned, the NISMO’s front bumper, engine undercover, and rear spoiler increase downforce, 220 lbs more than the standard GT-R while traveling at 185 mph. The center of pressure is managed well from front to rear to optimize handling, and yet the vehicle maintains the same drag coefficient, 0.26, as the standard GT-R.

Up front, lightweight aluminum 20 inch RAYS wheels wrapped in 255/40 Dunlop rubber cover massive 15.35” vented and drilled rotors with Brembo six piston calipers. This is matched with a double wishbone suspension, uniquely tuned for the NISMO with reduced weight and increased roll stiffness. In the rear, wider 285/35 rubber rides around 15 in vented and drilled rotors with Brembo 4 piston calipers. This is matched with an aluminum multi-link suspension.